The agreement President Obama announced this evening - including transparency measures, a mitigation target of two degree Celsius and a financing mechanism - is an important step forward that lays a key marker both in the global fight against climate change and in U.S. participation in such efforts.

In a speech on Tuesday, President Obama outlined some of the steps he believes should be taken to accelerate job growth in areas that will generate the greatest number of jobs while generating the greatest value for our economy, including: “tax cuts for small businesses, incentives to hire new workers … a fresh round of infrastructure spending” and a new proposal to provide rebates for consumers who weatherize their homes.

It is imperative for both auto dealers and auto companies to have a transparent process that gives dealers a chance to make their case for remaining open, while respecting the companies’ need to return to profitability.

As world leaders gather in Copenhagen to map out a strategy for a cleaner, more energy-efficient future, there has never been greater momentum for change – or a stronger case for why it is so imperative.

This week, the House will consider the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, legislation to protect American consumers and prevent the irresponsible behaviors and practices that contributed to the financial crisis last Fall.

President Obama inherited two major challenges from the Bush Administration: an economy in steep decline and involvement in two wars in which the objectives set forth at their outset had not been attained.